The Photographer’s Bucket List
Kalaloch Beach, Washington. Taken with Fujifilm X100V - 23mm, 1/70, f/7.1, ISO 320
“I Don’t Have Time to Travel”
Aren’t we always planning our next vacation, waiting for our next day off, or dreaming about being anywhere other than our desk? What are the reasons that are stopping you from going? Not having the budget, not having the available vacation days… maybe both sometimes, but what about all the time it takes to plan? Deciding where to go, what to do, where to stay - it all takes time.
I have taken trips planned months in advance, as well as jumped on the next available flight out. What I’ve found is this: It takes more time to PLAN a trip than the amount of time you actually spend ON the trip. All that time suffering through reading reviews and navigating websites, trying to make an informed decision. Even planning for a quick weekend getaway can take weeks! Wouldn’t it be easier if someone did this for you?
So, you go to a Travel agent. They can certainly score you a deal! Travel agents are great for families going to Disney World or on a cruise - but what if you want to see nature? I started making a list of everything I wanted to see: Mountains with snow covered tops, whales splashing in the ocean, the sun rising over the beach while the waves are crashing, waterfalls in the rainforest, the milky way clear in the night sky. To say I was overwhelmed with ideas was an understatement!
So, I decided to make a list.
A list that would help the photographers, videographers, and travelers who came after me, wanting to see beautiful things, but whose time is precious. I spend the time doing the research, actually visiting every place I suggest. Obviously National Parks are where it’s at, but I’ll also try to find some off the beaten path ideas to try too. I’ll use my research and experiences to suggest the most worthwhile places to visit, as well as what to avoid.
This isn’t a hiking blog, or an all-expense paid vacation. I’m going to keep it simple & easy. Moderate budgets, clean & comfy accommodations, and no off the grid 3 day wilderness backpacking trip with a 5,000 ft. elevation gain. We do enjoy hiking & camping, so there will be plenty of it. Some of my happiest memories involve sleeping outside in a hammock in bear country after showering in a lake - but I still had access to a bathroom and a locked vehicle for my camera gear. It’s all about keeping it real and managing expectations!
Welcome to the adventure, and I hope to see you somewhere along the way!
-Amanda
Amanda Altman Photo, Creator of The Photographer’s Bucket List